Thursday, June 4, 2026 Cluster 3

As our Summer Reading Program 2026 continues, Pohnpei Public Library took students on a tour to explore nearby historical sites around Kolonia. Students arrived with curiosity and excitement, ready to dive into Pohnpei’s rich culture and history, like the program’s theme “Unearth a Story”. 

The field trip started at Pohnpei’s Cultural and Historic Preservation office, where students learned the importance of preserving culture and what they can do to preserve it. Students took notes on their observations and were encouraged to listen attentively and ask questions. After a short presentation by Field Educator Fasi Marie Ioanis and Acting Chief Jason Barnabas about the office, students were guided by Ms. Ioanis and two staff to the next three historic sites: Spanish Wall, German Bell Tower, and the Japanese Shrine. At each location, students learned the history of the site, inspiring interest in their history and eagerness to share.

After the field trip, students returned to the library and were given ample time to refresh and reenergize with recess and snacks. This carried them into the last activity of the day, students were divided into groups, and each group was assigned to create a PowerPoint presentation highlighting the historical sites they are assigned to present. This activity fostered student’s curiosity of their culture, encouraged teamwork, and helped them make new friends. 

On behalf of the Board of The Friends of Pohnpei Public Library, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Office of Pohnpei Culture and Historic Preservation, Acting chief and his staff for your warmth hospitality, generous support and guidance. We also express our sincere gratitude to the Pohnpei State Department of Education for providing transportation, ensuring that our students could fully experience this cultural journey.

Wednesday, July 1, 2026 Cluster 3

Day two for cluster three added more fun and excitement as the students toured the Library Book Mobile and introduced to the Library computer lab. For many students, touching a computer for the first time brings pure excitement, each new skill, like creating a PowerPoint slide, feels like unlocking a world of possibilities. The students discovered the basics of computers with wide eyed enthusiasm as if uncovering hidden treasures.  

These students have shown remarkable skill, mastering the essentials of PowerPoint in just half a day and preparing to present on the sites they will tour the following day. Their presentations will focus on historical sites and the importance of safeguarding them, as these places are vital to keeping our cultural heritage alive, for in protecting these places we ensure that our cultural heritage continues to live and inspire future generations. 

Alongside learning PowerPoint skills, the students also take part in Story Hour. In past years, we simply selected random books from the Library’s collection to read aloud. This year, however, is different. We are sharing local legends and ancestral stories passed down through generations, narratives that connect us to our roots. We believe that by knowing their own legends, students will strengthen their bond with the past and deepen their appreciation of our cultural heritage. 

The students were also given an assignment to write about how they believe having a bookmobile service at their school would benefit both themselves and the wider community. They will present their reflections on the final day of the program. 

With heartfelt gratitude, we honor the volunteers whose dedication made this year’s Summer Reading Program possible. 

Summer Reading Program 2026 – Cluster 3 Kickoff

The Friends of the Pohnpei Public Library proudly launched Day 1 of the Summer Reading Program 2026 for Cluster 3, welcoming students entering 6th to 8th grade. The day began with warm introductions as students, library staff, and community service volunteers got to know one another, creating a welcoming and supportive learning environment.

The morning continued with Story Hour, where students listened to the traditional Pohnpeian legend of Lidakihka and Sapwkini, the story of how Pohnpei was created. According to the legend, the octopus Lidakihka guided the way while Sapwkini raised the island from the sea. This foundational story helps students connect with their cultural heritage, reminding them that Pohnpei is more than just a place to live—it is a homeland rich with history, tradition, and identity passed down through generations.

To deepen their understanding of Pohnpei's past, students visited the historic Japanese-era Agriculture Station in Pwunso, Nett. Built between 1926 and 1927, this remarkable Art Deco-style structure originally served as the South Seas Bureau Agricultural Research Institute and a meteorological observatory. Under the leadership of agronomist Hoshino Shutaro, the station became a center for tropical agriculture research, introducing crops such as cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, pepper, and cinnamon, while also conducting rice crossbreeding experiments. Despite the devastation of World War II, the reinforced concrete building survived and remains one of Pohnpei's most significant historical landmarks nearly a century later.

This visit marks the beginning of several educational field trips planned throughout the Summer Reading Program, giving students the opportunity to explore and appreciate the cultural and historical treasures of their island.

In addition to learning about Pohnpei's history and traditions, Cluster 3 students will also develop valuable computer skills, including keyboarding, Microsoft Word, and Microsoft PowerPoint. Throughout the program, they will use these skills to create presentations showcasing what they have learned from their historical site visits, reading activities, and cultural experiences.

Day 1 laid the foundation for an exciting journey of discovery, combining cultural heritage with modern technology. Through stories, hands-on learning, and digital skills, students will gain a deeper appreciation of their island while preparing themselves for future academic and personal success.

Tuesday June 24, 2026 Cluster 2

The Friends of the Pohnpei Public Library proudly welcomed Cluster 2 students (entering 3rd to 5th Grade) this week to the Summer Reading Program 2026, themed “Unearth a Story.” With both morning and afternoon sessions, the library was filled with excitement as eager young readers began a new week of discovery. 

The program opened with warm introductions, where staff, volunteers, and children shared their names in a circle activity designed to build community. Ice breaker games followed, helping students feel comfortable and ready to learn together. 

   

At the heart of the day was story time, featuring “The Legend of Litakika, the Octopus.” This indigenous tale was chosen not only to spark imagination but also to connect students to their cultural heritage. By learning how Litakika guided voyagers to create the island of Pohnpei, children discovered how stories can preserve history, values, and identity. The activity directly supports the theme “Unearth a Story” by encouraging students to uncover lessons hidden in local legends and to see storytelling as a way of connecting past and present. 

The Litakika story helps our children understand that reading is more than words on a page. It is a way to unearth the wisdom of our ancestors and carry it forward. Through indigenous stories, we strengthen cultural pride while nurturing curiosity and comprehension skills. Students also enjoyed recess, snacks, and playground time before returning indoors for more activities. The program continues to emphasize discovery, teamwork, and cultural storytelling, ensuring that each child leaves with lasting memories and meaningful lessons. 

The Friends of the Pohnpei Public Library extend heartfelt thanks to staff, volunteers, and families for making this week’s program a success. Our sincere appreciation also goes out to IMLS (Institude of Museum and Library Service) for your generous funding through FSM National Archive.